Egypt’s Land Reclamation Sector Removes Encroachments, Boosts Water Management

Egypt’s Land Reclamation Sector, part of the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, removed 13 illegal encroachments spanning a total area of 1,262 square meters last week. Authorities also investigated and responded to 21 spatial variable points in the Al-Hammam, Banger El Sukkar, and Matrouh centers, initiating legal action against violators.

The actions were detailed in an official report reviewing the sector’s efforts and activities over the past week. Dr. Najeh Fawzy, Head of the Land Reclamation Sector, presented the report, which highlighted ongoing work in encroachment removal, comprehensive clearing of irrigation canals and drains, and extension services. These initiatives align with directives from Alaa Farouk, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation.

During the same week, the sector completed the clearing of 17 sub-canals and private irrigation channels, covering a total length of 22.5 kilometers. Additionally, 18 drains, extending 19.2 kilometers, were cleared in regions including Banger El Sukkar, North Beheira, Fayoum, and Kafr El Sheikh. Engineering adjustments were also made to the levels of “Masqa 2” in Adam village, Taiba, to ensure water delivery to the ends of the canals and service all associated farmlands.

Dr. Fawzy inspected the experimental farm in the Banger El Sukkar region, engaging directly with beneficiaries to address their demands and resolve issues. The visit also aimed to ensure the consistent disbursement of subsidized fertilizers to eligible recipients. Furthermore, the sector participated in the Winter Crops Conference in Alexandria, where mechanisms for enhancing wheat and sugar beet yields were discussed.

The sector organized 26 extension workshops and 21 field schools in West Nubariya during the week. These sessions focused on best practices for cultivating wheat, beet, and strawberries, alongside strategies for adapting to climate change. Monitoring of wheat crops continued, and new cooperative associations were inaugurated in Ismailia and West Nubariya to enhance services for farmers. The sector also convened 30 general assemblies across various oversight regions.